Coralee W. Howarth of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully at Westminster-Canterbury on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, with her husband of 47 years by her side. She was the youngest child of “Dick” and Elizabeth Wharton. She attended Norview High School and Mary Washington College, when it was the women’s division of the University of Virginia.
Following college, Coralee moved to Virginia Beach, where she met her husband, Paul. She pursued what would eventually become a 30 year career in education with most of her time spent teaching first grade. She deeply cherished connecting with her students and helping them progress through their childhoods. Coralee took a break from teaching to raise two fine sons, Adam and Carter. During their early years Coralee taught at a local pre-school and the boys went along with her. She also exposed them to many adventures, learning about animals at the zoo, wildlife at Seashore State Park, and taking them to children’s concerts and plays.
Coralee was an active member of the Baylake United Methodist Women and served as the organization’s Treasurer. She was also part of a Bible Study Circle and organized a neighborhood Bunco group. Coralee loved being outside and always had a passion for nature. After retiring from her teaching career, she turned her focus to the outdoors and became a Master Gardener. She was a member of the Thoroughgood Garden Club and often volunteered at the Thoroughgood House trimming topiaries in the gardens.
Coralee was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, two sons, a daughter-in-law Grace, brother Richard W. Wharton of York County, Virginia, sister Beth Williams of Austin, Texas, and three grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Baylake United Methodist Church on Sunday February 2, at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.